Content Development Specialist, Communications and External Affairs

Who we are:

The Council of State Governments Justice Center is a national nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that combines the power of a membership association, representing state officials in all three branches of government, with policy and research expertise to develop strategies that increase public safety and strengthen communities. We help achieve those results by:

• Bringing people together from both sides of the aisle to foster collaboration.
• Driving the criminal justice field forward with original research.
• Building momentum for policy change at the state and local levels
• Providing expert assistance to translate the latest research into policy and practice.

 The CSG Justice Center is one of the most robust criminal justice organizations in the country, composed of approximately 120 employees with decades of experience in law enforcement, community corrections, court administration, housing, mental health and addiction services, state prisons, local jails, juvenile justice, education, workforce development, and victim advocacy. Staff here have served governors, state legislators and members of Congress on both sides of the political spectrum. What bonds us together is a shared commitment to our mission, to a common set of values, and to the national, bipartisan advisory board that guides our work. Learn more about careersat the CSG Justice Center.

 What you'll do:

The content development specialist will work with leadership and staff across the CSG Justice Center to develop a wide range of content that documents the work of the organization and the issues it seeks to address. Specific position responsibilities include:

• Concept development: Work with the Communications and External Affairs division, Behavioral Health, and State Initiatives divisions to identify opportunities for original content development that align with and advance the CSG Justice Center's goals. Serve as a key contributor to establish non-traditional ways to communicate the organization's work and message. Establish specifications and standards for new content formats, templates, and styles.
• Subject-matter research: Maintain broad knowledge of criminal justice issues and conduct background research, as needed, in relevant policy areas to inform the development of new content. This research may require consultation with policymakers, national experts, funders, advocates, and practitioners.
• Original content creation: Lead the writing and strategic development of an array of content for the organization, including policy reports, fact sheets, interactive tools, web content, and more. Regularly consult with subject matter experts'both within the CSG Justice Center and externally'to ensure accuracy and strategic value of new content. Collaborate with Communications and External Affairs division staff to ensure content reflects the organization's tone and voice and meets quality standards.
• Project management: Manage assigned projects from inception to completion to ensure that all activities are coordinated, executed effectively, and completed on time and within budget.
• Coordination and collaboration: Actively participate in staff discussions and strategic planning meetings. Serve as a liaison between Communications and External Affairs and other internal divisions'particularly the Behavioral Health and State Initiatives divisions'to collaborate, exchange information, and advance the organization's mission.

What you'll bring:

• A bachelor's degree
• At least 5 years of work experience in the fields of communications, writing, content development, journalism, or similar. Knowledge of criminal justice and/or behavioral health systems preferred. Experience writing about policy issues a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to effectively interpret, distill, and present complex information in a clear, concise way
• Strong research, editing, and conceptual development skills
• Ability to think strategically and take initiative
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with an ability to listen well, interact effectively with individuals at all levels of the organization, and build strong relationships both internally and externally
• Efficient, organized work style and an ability to prioritize quickly and confidently and manage multiple deadlines
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs required and experience with Adobe Creative Suite preferred.

How you apply:

If you're interested in helping us drive change across the country, you should upload the following elements with your application:

• Cover letter with salary expectations
• Resume
• Writing Sample

The CSG Justice Center is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We participate in E-Verify.